Laurence Holmes NFL Draft Preview (April 27th, 2006)

If Jerry Angelo traded out of the 1^st Round of the Draft, would Bears fans be mad? I would guess initially, but there actually is some benefit to it.

Angelo likes the idea of the diamond in the rough and has done well with late round picks: Alex Brown, Nate Vasher, Chris Harris and Kyle Orton were all Day 2 picks. In his heart, he’s a scout. He’s into the science of the draft.

There are needs of depth and competition, but the biggest question the Bears need to answer can’t be figured out in the draft; as much as we’d like it to be. That’s right, it’s the Quarterback spot. I believe Rex Grossman will be a good pro, but his health is an issue until it’s not an issue. With all 22 starters coming back and a weak division that has 3 new coaches, the Bears are as close as any team in the NFL to being a lock for the playoffs. If Grossman plays well, the Bears could be a favorite to win the NFC.

As draft day approaches, Angelo can build for the future and may be able to get an extra pick by giving up the 26^th overall. A good Tight End should still be available all the way through the 2^nd round. The same goes for a Linebacker.

So don’t be surprised if a deal is made. The Jets have the #29 pick, but they also have the #4. Perhaps they would want to move up the three spots to get someone else in exchange for #29 and their 2^nd round #35. Denver has two 2^nd round picks.

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I’m often accused of being a conspiracy theorist by Bears brass, but I thought that I would share this with you guys and let you decide.

Last week, Lovie Smith vehemently denied that Charles Tillman was moving to Safety. Then the team signs Ricky Manning and trades Mike Green. Brandon McGowan is still nursing a knee injury, so that leaves them a little short in the Safety department. When Tillman was selected, Jerry Angelo thought that he would be a Pro-Bowl Safety if he didn’t work out at Cornerback. I think it might be too soon to say he doesn’t work at CB, but it’s a little weird that their light at the spot and Tillman’s measurables might be better utilized playing alongside Mike Brown.

Go to CBS.SPORTSLINE.COM and check out the Bears page and click on "players" and see what Tillman’s fantasy notes say and tell me if you’re not skeptical about what Lovie and the boys are doing at Halas Hall . . .

Comments

[Nathan Johnston]

Absolutely Laurence,
I was just thinking that conspiracey over the past 2 days. I really enjoy your work, and thinking. When I read your stuff, or usually listen to you on The Score I find myself saying, "Finally, someone who knows what they're talking about!" Don't worry, no man crush I'm married. ahha But I definitely think that They'll pick a Cornerback that could start quickly, so they can move Tillman to Safety. Peace and Thanks again!

[Bear fan Bob]

Good thoughts Lawerence I agree with you Tillman should be a saftey.Better suited for the job.
I hope the Bears are not stupid and get rid T. Jones WE NEED HIM. this team will go no where without him!

[Flimo]

Mike North is a dingbat.